the only species of Demodex that lives on the skin surface, instead of within the follicle

What are the key points to performing a superficial skin scrape? (4)

cover a large surface area, search entire slide on low power, lower condenser, negative does NOT rule out disease

What is the indication for a deep skin scrape?

identification of follicular parasites- Demodex (except gatoi)

What are the key points to performing a deep skin scrape? (3)

small focal areas (as opposed to superficial, in which you must cover a large area), induce capillary bleeding, negative usually rules out disease [except when hyperplastic tissue is seen--> can't get down to follicle]